Definition of spellbindnext
as in to fascinate
to hold the attention of as if by a spell the tale about pirates and their buried treasure had completely spellbound the children

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of spellbind But the night went from spooky to spellbinding when the stars of the beloved 1998 fantasy film revealed themselves to the shocked crowd of fans. — Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 2 Aug. 2026 There are no memorable choruses, hooky instrumentals passages, or spellbinding solos, all which have been a part of the band’s sonic identity, including on Life Is But a Dream… to an extent. — Quentin Thane Singer, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026 As many as 13,000 of the wily reptiles live in the swamp, adding a layer of spellbinding magic to the wetland. — Charles Seabrook, AJC.com, 25 July 2026 Thereby hangs Colloff’s spellbinding tale of a justice system derailed by biases. — Hamilton Cain, Time, 7 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for spellbind
Recent Examples of Synonyms for spellbind
Verb
  • The reaction to this movie fascinates me, starting in Cannes.
    — Anne Thompson, IndieWire, 12 Oct. 2026
  • In 2008, passionate surfer Tim Russo purchased the property, renamed it, and set out to organically grow it into a resort full of wonder where serious surfers and travelers fascinated with the surf lifestyle could vacation happily.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • Harvest markets and ghostly performances also enchant—not to mention a Halloween express to convey guests.
    — Michelle Mastro, Midwest Living, 9 Oct. 2026
  • My daughter was enchanted by the Balinese rice-on-the-forehead ritual for good fortune that is a part of the arrival, and the front desk staff happily indulged her request to do it again—multiple times a day.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Spellbind.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spellbind. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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